Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Is the Accounting Profession Setting the Bar Too Low?

Business Week's Best Place to Launch a Career 2009 reveals an interesting detail about the accounting profession. The Big 4 firms hold the top four spots: Deloitte (1), E&Y (2), PWC (3) and KPMG (4). Grant Thornton (51) and RSM McGladrey (66) also make the list. Kudos to the accounting profession! However, when asked to identify the most desirable trait in new employees the responses were either "College GPA" or "College Major." Are we setting the bar too low? Companies like General Mills, Nestle, Johnson & Johnson, Marriott, and CIGNA are looking for leadership; Booz Allen Hamilton, Merck, and Walt Disney are looking for communication; and, Wells Fargo, Progressive, Amazon.com, and Prudential are looking for analytical skills. Think of the competitive advantage you could create by expecting more from your recruits than a college degree!Our webinar on November 10, 1:00 p.m. Eastern, Creating a Great Place to Work, will explore the characteristics of the best companies to work for, what great CPA firms have in common, and hiring/career trends. It's not all about the benefits. It's about the people.

About Me

My name is Jean Caragher. I am president of Capstone Marketing, Celebrating 13 Years. I am an award-winning, recognized industry expert with over 25 years accounting marketing experience. Over the years I’ve been called a lot of things - tenacious, knowledgeable, experienced, focused – all qualities that will benefit your CPA firm’s marketing program.
Capstone Marketing’s services include Brand Surgery, Marketing Plan Development & Implementation, Retreat Facilitation, Training, and Marketing Director Recruiting.
You can contact me at jcaragher@capstonemarketing.com or 757.673.6826.